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Peters Haugrud AR, Achilli AL, Martínez-Peña R, Klymiuk V. Future of durum wheat research and breeding: Insights from early career researchers. THE PLANT GENOME 2024:e20453. [PMID: 38760906 DOI: 10.1002/tpg2.20453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. durum) is globally cultivated for pasta, couscous, and bulgur production. With the changing climate and growing world population, the need to significantly increase durum production to meet the anticipated demand is paramount. This review summarizes recent advancements in durum research, encompassing the exploitation of existing and novel genetic diversity, exploration of potential new diversity sources, breeding for climate-resilient varieties, enhancements in production and management practices, and the utilization of modern technologies in breeding and cultivar development. In comparison to bread wheat (T. aestivum), the durum wheat community and production area are considerably smaller, often comprising many small-family farmers, notably in African and Asian countries. Public breeding programs such as the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) play a pivotal role in providing new and adapted cultivars for these small-scale growers. We spotlight the contributions of these and others in this review. Additionally, we offer our recommendations on key areas for the durum research community to explore in addressing the challenges posed by climate change while striving to enhance durum production and sustainability. As part of the Wheat Initiative, the Expert Working Group on Durum Wheat Genomics and Breeding recognizes the significance of collaborative efforts in advancing toward a shared objective. We hope the insights presented in this review stimulate future research and deliberations on the trajectory for durum wheat genomics and breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda R Peters Haugrud
- Cereal Crops Research Unit, Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Ana Laura Achilli
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Raquel Martínez-Peña
- Regional Institute of Agri-Food and Forestry Research and Development of Castilla-La Mancha (IRIAF), Agroenvironmental Research Center El Chaparrillo, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Valentyna Klymiuk
- Crop Development Centre and Department of Plant Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Wang J, Wu H, Wang Y, Ye W, Kong X, Yin Z. Small particles, big effects: How nanoparticles can enhance plant growth in favorable and harsh conditions. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38578151 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
By 2050, the global population is projected to reach 9 billion, underscoring the imperative for innovative solutions to increase grain yield and enhance food security. Nanotechnology has emerged as a powerful tool, providing unique solutions to this challenge. Nanoparticles (NPs) can improve plant growth and nutrition under normal conditions through their high surface-to-volume ratio and unique physical and chemical properties. Moreover, they can be used to monitor crop health status and augment plant resilience against abiotic stresses (such as salinity, drought, heavy metals, and extreme temperatures) that endanger global agriculture. Application of NPs can enhance stress tolerance mechanisms in plants, minimizing potential yield losses and underscoring the potential of NPs to raise crop yield and quality. This review highlights the need for a comprehensive exploration of the environmental implications and safety of nanomaterials and provides valuable guidelines for researchers, policymakers, and agricultural practitioners. With thoughtful stewardship, nanotechnology holds immense promise in shaping environmentally sustainable agriculture amid escalating environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
| | - Honghong Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yichao Wang
- School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Wuwei Ye
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China
| | - Xiangpei Kong
- The Key Laboratory of Plant Development and Environmental Adaptation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Zujun Yin
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China
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Hubert B, Marchi M, Ly Vu J, Tranchant C, Tarkowski ŁP, Leprince O, Buitink J. A method to determine antifungal activity in seed exudates by nephelometry. PLANT METHODS 2024; 20:16. [PMID: 38287427 PMCID: PMC10826049 DOI: 10.1186/s13007-024-01144-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the levers towards alternative solutions to pesticides is to improve seed defenses against pathogens, but a better understanding is needed on the type and regulation of existing pathways during germination. Dormant seeds are able to defend themselves against microorganisms during cycles of rehydration and dehydration in the soil. During imbibition, seeds leak copious amounts of exudates. Here, we developed a nephelometry method to assay antimicrobial activity (AA) in tomato seed exudates as a proxy to assess level of defenses. RESULTS A protocol is described to determine the level of AA against the nonhost filamentous fungus Alternaria brassicicola in the exudates of tomato seeds and seedlings. The fungal and exudate concentrations can be adjusted to modulate the assay sensitivity, thereby providing a large window of AA detection. We established that AA in dormant seeds depends on the genotype. It ranged from very strong AA to complete absence of AA, even after prolonged imbibition. AA depends also on the stages of germination and seedling emergence. Exudates from germinated seeds and seedlings showed very strong AA, while those from dormant seeds exhibited less activity for the same imbibition time. The exudate AA did not impact the growth of a pathogenic fungus host of tomato, Alternaria alternata, illustrating the adaptation of this fungus to its host. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that our nephelometry method is a simple yet powerful bioassay to quantify AA in seed exudates. Different developmental stages from dormant seed to seedlings show different levels of AA in the exudate that vary between genotypes, highlighting a genetic diversity x developmental stage interaction in defense. These findings will be important to identify molecules in the exudates conferring antifungal properties and obtain a better understanding of the regulatory and biosynthetic pathways through the lifecycle of seeds, from dormant seeds until seedling emergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Hubert
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Muriel Marchi
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Joseph Ly Vu
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Camille Tranchant
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Łukasz P Tarkowski
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France
- INRAE, Université de Strasbourg, UMR SVQV, Colmar, France
| | - Olivier Leprince
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Julia Buitink
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France.
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Jarrar H, El-Keblawy A, Ghenai C, Abhilash PC, Bundela AK, Abideen Z, Sheteiwy MS. Seed enhancement technologies for sustainable dryland restoration: Coating and scarification. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166150. [PMID: 37595910 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
High temperatures, soil salinity, a lack of available water, loose soils with reduced water holding, and low soil fertility are obstacles to restoration efforts in degraded drylands and desert ecosystems. Improved soil physical and chemical properties, seed germination and seedling recruitment, and plant growth are all proposed as outcomes of seed enhancement technologies (SETs). Seed priming, seed coating, and seed scarification are three SETs' methods for promoting seed germination and subsequent plant development under unfavorable environmental conditions. Various subtypes can be further classified within these three broad groups. The goals of this review are to (1) develop a general classification of coating and scarification SETs, (2) facilitate the decision-making process to adopt suitable SETs for arid lands environments, and (3) highlight the benefits of coating and scarification SETs in overcoming biotic and abiotic challenges in ecological restoring degraded dryland. For rehabilitating degraded lands and restoring drylands, it is recommended to 1) optimize SETs that have been used effectively for a long time, particularly those associated with seed physiological enhancement and seed microenvironment, 2) integrate coating and scarification to overcome different biotic and abiotic constraints, and 3) apply SET(s) to a mixture of seeds from various species and sizes. However, more research should be conducted on developing SETs for large-scale use to provide the required seed tonnages for dryland restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Jarrar
- Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Research Group, Research Institute for Sciences and Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Ali El-Keblawy
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Chaouki Ghenai
- Department of Sustainable and Renewable Energy Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - P C Abhilash
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India
| | - Amit Kumar Bundela
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India
| | - Zainul Abideen
- Dr. Muhammad Ajmal Khan Institute of Sustainable Halophyte Utilization, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed S Sheteiwy
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
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Zhang K, Han X, Fu Y, Zhou Y, Khan Z, Bi J, Hu L, Luo L. Biochar Coating as a Cost-Effective Delivery Approach to Promoting Seed Quality, Rice Germination, and Seedling Establishment. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3896. [PMID: 38005793 PMCID: PMC10674834 DOI: 10.3390/plants12223896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
The application of high-quality seeds ensures successful crop establishment, healthy growth, and improved production in both quantity and quality. Recently, biochar-based seed coating has been recognized as a new, effective, and environmentally friendly method to enhance seed quality, seedling uniformity, and nutrient availability. To study the impact of biochar coating on the surface mechanical properties of coated seeds, rice emergence and growth, and related physical and physiological metabolic events, laboratory experiments were performed on two water-saving and drought-resistance rice (WDR) varieties (Huhan1512 and Hanyou73) using biochar formulations with varying contents (20%-60%). The results showed that the appropriate concentration of biochar significantly improved emergence traits and seedling performance of the two rice varieties, compared to the uncoated treatment, and that the optimal percentage of biochar coating was 30% (BC30). On average, across both varieties, BC30 enhanced emergence rate (9.5%), emergence index (42.9%), shoot length (19.5%), root length (23.7%), shoot dry weight (25.1%), and root dry weight (49.8%). The improved germination characteristics and vigorous seedling growth induced by biochar coating were strongly associated with higher water uptake by seeds, increased α-amylase activity and respiration rate, and enhanced accumulation of soluble sugar and soluble protein. Moreover, the evaluation results of mechanical properties related to seed coating quality found that increasing the proportion of biochar in the coating blend decreased the integrity and compressive strength of the coated seeds and reduced the time required for coating disintegration. In conclusion, biochar coating is a cost-effective strategy for enhancing crop seed quality and seedling establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangkang Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (K.Z.); (X.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Grain Crop Genetic Resources Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 201106, China
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Xiaomeng Han
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (K.Z.); (X.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yanfeng Fu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (K.Z.); (X.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Grain Crop Genetic Resources Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 201106, China
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (K.Z.); (X.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Zaid Khan
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China;
| | - Junguo Bi
- Key Laboratory of Grain Crop Genetic Resources Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 201106, China
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Liyong Hu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (K.Z.); (X.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Lijun Luo
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (K.Z.); (X.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Grain Crop Genetic Resources Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 201106, China
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, Shanghai 201106, China
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Xu Z, Adeyemi AE, Catalan E, Ma S, Kogut A, Guzman C. A scoping review on technology applications in agricultural extension. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292877. [PMID: 37930967 PMCID: PMC10627468 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Agricultural extension plays a crucial role in disseminating knowledge, empowering farmers, and advancing agricultural development. The effectiveness of these roles can be greatly improved by integrating technology. These technologies, often grouped into two categories-agricultural technology and educational technology-work together to yield the best outcomes. While several studies have been conducted using technologies in agricultural extension programs, no previous reviews have solely examined the impact of these technologies in agricultural extension, and this leaves a significant knowledge gap especially for professionals in this field. For this scoping review, we searched the five most relevant, reliable, and comprehensive databases (CAB Abstracts (Ovid), AGRICOLA (EBSCO), ERIC (EBSCO), Education Source (EBSCO), and Web of Science Core Collection) for articles focused on the use of technology for training farmers in agricultural extension settings. Fifty-four studies published between 2000 and 2022 on the use of technology in agricultural extension programs were included in this review. Our findings show that: (1) most studies were conducted in the last seven years (2016-2022) in the field of agronomy, with India being the most frequent country and Africa being the most notable region for the studies; (2) the quantitative research method was the most employed, while most of the included studies used more than one data collection approach; (3) multimedia was the most widely used educational technology, while most of the studies combined more than one agricultural technology such as pest and disease control, crop cultivation and harvesting practices; (4) the impacts of technology in agricultural extension were mostly mixed, while only the educational technology type had a statistically significant effect or impact of the intervention outcome. From an analysis of the results, we identified potential limitations in included studies' methodology and reporting that should be considered in the future like the need to further analyze the specific interactions between the two technology types and their impacts of some aspects of agricultural extension. We also looked at the characteristics of interventions, the impact of technology on agricultural extension programs, and current and future trends. We emphasized the gaps in the literature that need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Xu
- Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Anjorin Ezekiel Adeyemi
- Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Emily Catalan
- Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Shuai Ma
- Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ashlynn Kogut
- Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture, Texas A&M University College, Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Cristina Guzman
- Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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Eevera T, Kumaran S, Djanaguiraman M, Thirumaran T, Le QH, Pugazhendhi A. Unleashing the potential of nanoparticles on seed treatment and enhancement for sustainable farming. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 236:116849. [PMID: 37558116 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
The foremost challenge in farming is the storage of seeds after harvest and maintaining seed quality during storage. In agriculture, studies showed positive impacts of nanotechnology on plant development, seed storage, endurance under various types of stress, detection of seed damages, and seed quality. Seed's response varies with different types of nanoparticles depending on its physical and biochemical properties and plant species. Herein, we aim to cover the impact of nanoparticles on seed coating, dormancy, germination, seedling, nutrition, plant growth, stress conditions protection, and storage. Although the seed treatment by nanopriming has been shown to improve seed germination, seedling development, stress tolerance, and seedling growth, their full potential was not realized at the field level. Sustainable nano-agrochemicals and technology could provide good seed quality with less environmental toxicity. The present review critically discusses eco-friendly strategies that can be employed for the nanomaterial seed treatment and seed enhancement process to increase seedling vigor under different conditions. Also, an integrated approach involving four innovative concepts, namely green co-priming, nano-recycling of agricultural wastes, nano-pairing, and customized nanocontainer storage, has been proposed to acclimatize nanotechnology in farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamilmani Eevera
- Department of Seed Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shanmugam Kumaran
- Department of Biotechnology, Periyar Maniammai Institute of Science & Technology (Deemed to be University), Vallam, Thanjavur, 613 403, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Maduraimuthu Djanaguiraman
- Department of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Thanabalu Thirumaran
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551
| | - Quynh Hoang Le
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam; Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam
| | - Arivalagan Pugazhendhi
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam; Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam.
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8
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Valente MT, Orzali L, Manetti G, Magnanimi F, Matere A, Bergamaschi V, Grottoli A, Bechini S, Riccioni L, Aragona M. Rapid molecular assay for the evaluation of clove essential oil antifungal activity against wheat common bunt. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1130793. [PMID: 37342131 PMCID: PMC10277744 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1130793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Common bunt of durum wheat (DW), Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum (Desf.) Husn., is caused by the two closely related fungal species belonging to Tilletia genus (Tilletiales, Exobasidiomycetes, Ustilaginomycotina): Tilletia laevis Kühn (syn. T. foetida (Wallr.) Liro.) and T. caries (DC) Tul. (syn. T. tritici (Bjerk.) G. Winter). This is one of the most devastating diseases in wheat growing areas worldwide, causing considerable yield loss and reduction of wheat grains and flour quality. For these reasons, a fast, specific, sensitive, and cost-effective method for an early diagnosis of common bunt in wheat seedlings is urgent. Several molecular and serological methods were developed for diagnosis of common bunt in wheat seedlings but at late phenological stages (inflorescence) or based on conventional PCR amplification, with low sensitivity. In this study, a TaqMan Real Time PCR-based assay was developed for rapid diagnosis and quantification of T. laevis in young wheat seedlings, before tillering stage. This method, along with phenotypic analysis, was used to study conditions favoring pathogen infection and to evaluate the effectiveness of clove oil-based seed dressing in controlling the disease. The overall results showed that: i) the Real Time PCR assay was able to quantify T. laevis in young wheat seedlings after seed dressing by clove oil in different formulations, greatly reducing times of analysis. It showed high sensitivity, detecting up to 10 fg of pathogen DNA, specificity and robustness, allowing to directly analyze crude plant extracts and representing a useful tool to speed up the tests of genetic breeding for disease resistance; ii) temperature was a critical point for disease development when using wheat seeds contaminated by T. laevis spores; iii) at least one of the clove oil-based formulations tested was able to efficiently control wheat common bunt, suggesting that clove oil dressing could represent a promising tool for managing the disease, especially in sustainable farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Valente
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Orzali
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Giuliano Manetti
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Magnanimi
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Matere
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Valentino Bergamaschi
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Grottoli
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Bechini
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Riccioni
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Aragona
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
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Romuli S, Jesser A, Ikenna Nwankwo C, Herrmann L, Müller J. Low-cost drum granulator for mechanized seedball production. HARDWAREX 2023; 13:e00397. [PMID: 36941972 PMCID: PMC10024219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ohx.2023.e00397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Seed granulation is a coating technique, which turns a raw material mixture of sand, loam, water, seeds, and fertilizers into seedballs. It enhances the seedling establishment and early growth of crops, like pearl millet, in nutrient-poor soil. Mechanization is highly required, as large-scale production poses challenges to local farmers due to time constraints and labor demand. The prototype of a drum granulator for seeds, also known as a seedball machine, essentially consists of a metal frame and a drum. The seedballs are formed by a rotational motion of the drum. The construction and operation of the machine were designed to be simple. In this study, the combined effect of different factors, such as substrate composition, rotational speed and residence time was taken into account. This study revealed that the amount of loam and the rotational speed of the drum appeared to be the most influencing factors on seedball production and quality. The machine had a production capacity of seedballs ten times higher than manual production. The machine-made seedballs were also of high quality, exceeding 98% germination rate under greenhouse conditions. Besides pearl millet, the machine can be potentially used for other small-sized seeds, such as cotton or sesame.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Romuli
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Tropics and Subtropics Group, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 9, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
| | - Achim Jesser
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Tropics and Subtropics Group, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 9, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
| | - Charles Ikenna Nwankwo
- Institute of Soil Science and Land Evaluation, University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Strasse 12a, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
| | - Ludger Herrmann
- Institute of Soil Science and Land Evaluation, University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Strasse 12a, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
| | - Joachim Müller
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Tropics and Subtropics Group, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 9, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
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10
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Gohari NR, Modiri S, Yari H, Saffari M, Baghizadeh A. The application of hydrophilic polyvinyl alcohol coatings filled with different loadings of zinc oxide nanoparticles to mitigate salinity stress of the wheat seeds. J Appl Polym Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/app.53742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Rostami Gohari
- Polymer Engineering Group, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Department Graduate University of Advanced Technology Kerman Iran
| | - Sina Modiri
- Polymer Engineering Group, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Department Graduate University of Advanced Technology Kerman Iran
| | - Hossein Yari
- Department of Surface Coatings and Corrosion Institute for Color Science and Technology (ICST) Tehran Iran
| | - Mahboub Saffari
- Institute of Science and High Technology and Environmental Sciences Graduate University of Advanced Technology Kerman Iran
| | - Amin Baghizadeh
- Institute of Science and High Technology and Environmental Sciences Graduate University of Advanced Technology Kerman Iran
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Paravar A, Piri R, Balouchi H, Ma Y. Microbial seed coating: An attractive tool for sustainable agriculture. BIOTECHNOLOGY REPORTS (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 37:e00781. [PMID: 36655147 PMCID: PMC9841043 DOI: 10.1016/j.btre.2023.e00781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Seed coating is considered one of the best methods to promote sustainable agriculture where the physical and physiological properties of seeds can be improved to facilitate planting, increase growth indices and alleviate abiotic and biotic stresses. Several methods of seed coating are used to attain good application uniformity and adherence in the seed coating process. Seed coating has been tested in seeds of various plant species with different dimensions, forms, textures, and germination types. Plant beneficial microorganisms (PBM), such as rhizobia, bacteria, and fungi inoculated via seed inoculation can increase seed germination, plant performance and tolerance across biotic (e.g., pathogens and pests) and abiotic stress (e.g., salt, drought, and heavy metals) while reducing the use of agrochemical inputs. In this review, the microbial seed coating process and their ability to increase seed performance and protect plants from biotic and abiotic stresses are well discussed and highlighted in sustainable agricultural systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Paravar
- Department of Crop Production and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Piri
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Balouchi
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran,Corresponding authors.
| | - Ying Ma
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, China,Corresponding authors.
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12
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Pumnuan J, Namee D, Sarapothong K, Doungnapa T, Phutphat S, Pattamadilok C, Thipmanee K. Insecticidal activities of long pepper ( Piper retrofractum Vahl) fruit extracts against seed beetles ( Callosobruchus maculatus Fabricius, Callosobruchus chinensis Linnaeus, and Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky) and their effects on seed germination. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12589. [PMID: 36643306 PMCID: PMC9834741 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bruchid beetles (Callosobruchus maculatus and Callosobruchus chinensis), and maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais) are important insect pests during the postharvest period. Botanical insecticide is an alternative solution for controlling these insects, and long pepper (Piper retrofractum) has been reported as having insecticidal potential against general insect pests. Film seed coatings with various concentrations of hexane extracts were made for mung bean (Vigna radiata) and corn (Zea mays) seeds. Insecticidal activities of these treatments were assessed at before and after storage period of six months, and seed germination was also evaluated. The hexane extract was subjected to analysis of the bioactive components by using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Results revealed that the hexane extract presented extreme toxicity to both bruchid beetles higher compared to maize weevil at 24 h with LC50 values of 5.57-6.75 and 58.04 μg⋅cm-2, respectively. Bruchid beetles presented significant response to ethanol, acetone and hexane extracts, whereas maize weevil showed relatively low responsibility. Film seed coating with hexane extract at 1% and 3% concentrations with six-month storage presented high insecticidal activity against bruchid beetles by more than 88% mortality but had low kill rates against maize weevil. The coated mung bean seeds presented non-seed germination effect, whereas high effect was observed on coated corn. Isolation of bioactive components demonstrated that there were 74 compounds, where pentadecane was the main compound. Film seed coating technology for mung bean seed preservation by using 1% hexane extract from long pepper fruit presented to be an extremely effective method to control bruchid beetles without any seed germination effect. It could serve as one of the green insecticides of the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Pumnuan
- Department of Plant Production Technology, School of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, 10520, Thailand,Corresponding author.
| | - D. Namee
- Department of Plant Production Technology, School of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, 10520, Thailand
| | - K. Sarapothong
- Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University under the Royal Patronage, Pathumthani, 13180, Thailand
| | - T. Doungnapa
- Department of Plant Production Technology, School of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, 10520, Thailand
| | - S. Phutphat
- School of Science, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, 10520, Thailand
| | - C. Pattamadilok
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - K. Thipmanee
- Department of Plant Production Technology, School of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, 10520, Thailand
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13
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Cortés-Rojas D, Santos-Diaz A, Torres-Torres L, Zapata-Narváez Y, Beltrán-Acosta C, Cruz-Barrera M. Trichoderma koningiopsis Survival on Coated Seeds and Effect on Plant Growth Promotion in Rice (Oryza sativa). Curr Microbiol 2022; 80:22. [PMID: 36460904 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-022-03076-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Seed coating is an alternative delivery system for beneficial plant microorganisms into the soil. Although seed coats are widely used for the application of agrochemicals, the incorporation of beneficial microorganisms has not been explored deeply and their survival on seeds while in storage is unknown. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of the coating process on microbial survival and on plant growth promotion. Two coating formulations were designed, and assessed by two coating processes: rotating drum and fluidized bed. The rotating drum process resulted in more uniform coatings than in the fluidized bed process. In addition, with this coating technique, lower viability losses over time were observed. The rotatory drum prototype containing a biopolymer and a clay mineral derivate (P90) showed the best behavior at the three temperatures evaluated, with superior viabilities compared to the other prototypes and the lowest loss of viability after 12 months. The formulation of this coating prototype may preserve the viability of Trichoderma koningiopsis Th003 up to 15 months at 8 °C, 9 months at 18 °C, and 3 months at 28 °C, which are very promising shelf-life results. Regarding the effect of seed coating on plant growth, prototypes showed higher yields > 16% than the control, comparable to the conventional use of Tricotec® WG, which may reduce the number of applications and water consumption for dissolution of the inoculant. The results demonstrated that the formulation composition, as well as the coating process may impact the microbial survival on seeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Cortés-Rojas
- Bioproducts Department, Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA), Colombia. Km 14 via Mosquera-Bogotá, Mosquera, Colombia
| | - Adriana Santos-Diaz
- Tibaitatá Research Center, Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA), Colombia. Km 14 via Mosquera-Bogotá, Mosquera, Colombia
| | - Lissette Torres-Torres
- Tibaitatá Research Center, Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA), Colombia. Km 14 via Mosquera-Bogotá, Mosquera, Colombia
| | - Yimmy Zapata-Narváez
- Tibaitatá Research Center, Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA), Colombia. Km 14 via Mosquera-Bogotá, Mosquera, Colombia
| | - Camilo Beltrán-Acosta
- Tibaitatá Research Center, Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA), Colombia. Km 14 via Mosquera-Bogotá, Mosquera, Colombia
| | - Mauricio Cruz-Barrera
- Bioproducts Department, Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA), Colombia. Km 14 via Mosquera-Bogotá, Mosquera, Colombia.
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14
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Zhang K, Khan Z, Yu Q, Qu Z, Liu J, Luo T, Zhu K, Bi J, Hu L, Luo L. Biochar Coating Is a Sustainable and Economical Approach to Promote Seed Coating Technology, Seed Germination, Plant Performance, and Soil Health. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:2864. [PMID: 36365318 PMCID: PMC9657824 DOI: 10.3390/plants11212864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Seed germination and stand establishment are the first steps of crop growth and development. However, low seed vigor, improper seedbed preparation, unfavorable climate, and the occurrence of pests and diseases reduces the germination rate and seedling quality, resulting in insufficient crop populations and undesirable plant growth. Seed coating is an effective method that is being developed and applied in modern agriculture. It has many functions, such as improving seed vigor, promoting seedling growth, and reducing the occurrence of pests and diseases. Yet, during seed coating procedures, several factors, such as difficulty in biodegradation of coating materials and hindrance in the application of chemical ingredients to seeds, force us to explore reliable and efficient coating formulations. Biochar, as a novel material, may be expected to enhance seed germination and seedling establishment, simultaneously ensuring agricultural sustainability, environment, and food safety. Recently, biochar-based seed coating has gained much interest due to biochar possessing high porosity and water holding capacity, as well as wealthy nutrients, and has been proven to be a beneficial agent in seed coating formulations. This review presents an extensive overview on the history, methods, and coating agents of seed coating. Additionally, biochar, as a promising seed coating agent, is also synthesized on its physico-chemical properties. Combining seed coating with biochar, we discussed in detail the agricultural applications of biochar-based seed coating, such as the promotion of seed germination and stand establishment, the improvement of plant growth and nutrition, suitable carriers for microbial inoculants, and increase in herbicide selectivity. Therefore, this paper could be a good source of information on the current advance and future perspectives of biochar-based seed coating for modern agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangkang Zhang
- MARA Key Laboratory of Crop Ecophysiology and Farming System in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, No. 2901 Beidi Road, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Zaid Khan
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qing Yu
- MARA Key Laboratory of Crop Ecophysiology and Farming System in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, No. 2901 Beidi Road, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Zhaojie Qu
- MARA Key Laboratory of Crop Ecophysiology and Farming System in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jiahuan Liu
- MARA Key Laboratory of Crop Ecophysiology and Farming System in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Tao Luo
- MARA Key Laboratory of Crop Ecophysiology and Farming System in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Kunmiao Zhu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Nutritional Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Junguo Bi
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, No. 2901 Beidi Road, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Liyong Hu
- MARA Key Laboratory of Crop Ecophysiology and Farming System in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Lijun Luo
- Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center, No. 2901 Beidi Road, Shanghai 201106, China
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15
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Sol-Gel Coatings with Azofoska Fertilizer Deposited onto Pea Seeds. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14194119. [PMID: 36236067 PMCID: PMC9571079 DOI: 10.3390/polym14194119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pure silica sol obtained by hydrolysis of tetraethoxysilane and the same silica sol doped with fertilizer Azofoska were used to cover the surface of pea seeds. The surface state of the coated seeds (layer continuity, thickness, elemental composition) was studied by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) detector. Different conditions such as sol mixing method, seed immersion time, effect of diluting the sol with water, and ethanol (EtOH) were studied to obtain thin continuous coatings. The coated seeds were subjected to a germination and growth test to demonstrate that the produced SiO2 coating did not inhibit these processes; moreover, the presence of fertilizer in the coating structure facilitates the development of the seedling. The supply of nutrients directly to the grain's vicinity contributes to faster germination and development of seedlings. This may give the developing plants an advantage in growth over other undesirable plant species. These activities are in the line with the trends of searching for technologies increasing yields without creating an excessive burden on the natural environment.
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16
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Korbecka-Glinka G, Piekarska K, Wiśniewska-Wrona M. The Use of Carbohydrate Biopolymers in Plant Protection against Pathogenic Fungi. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14142854. [PMID: 35890629 PMCID: PMC9322042 DOI: 10.3390/polym14142854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal pathogens cause significant yield losses of many important crops worldwide. They are commonly controlled with fungicides which may have negative impact on human health and the environment. A more sustainable plant protection can be based on carbohydrate biopolymers because they are biodegradable and may act as antifungal compounds, effective elicitors or carriers of active ingredients. We reviewed recent applications of three common polysaccharides (chitosan, alginate and cellulose) to crop protection against pathogenic fungi. We distinguished treatments dedicated for seed sowing material, field applications and coating of harvested fruits and vegetables. All reviewed biopolymers were used in the three types of treatments, therefore they proved to be versatile resources for development of plant protection products. Antifungal activity of the obtained polymer formulations and coatings is often enhanced by addition of biocontrol microorganisms, preservatives, plant extracts and essential oils. Carbohydrate polymers can also be used for controlled-release of pesticides. Rapid development of nanotechnology resulted in creating new promising methods of crop protection using nanoparticles, nano-/micro-carriers and electrospun nanofibers. To summarize this review we outline advantages and disadvantages of using carbohydrate biopolymers in plant protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Korbecka-Glinka
- Department of Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation-State Research Institute, Czartoryskich 8, 24-100 Puławy, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Klaudia Piekarska
- Biomedical Engineering Center, Łukasiewicz Research Network-Łódź Institute of Technology, Skłodowskiej-Curie 19/27, 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (K.P.); (M.W.-W.)
| | - Maria Wiśniewska-Wrona
- Biomedical Engineering Center, Łukasiewicz Research Network-Łódź Institute of Technology, Skłodowskiej-Curie 19/27, 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (K.P.); (M.W.-W.)
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17
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Wahid MA, Irshad M, Irshad S, Khan S, Hasnain Z, Ibrar D, Khan AR, Saleem MF, Bashir S, Alotaibi SS, Matloob A, Farooq N, Ismail MS, Cheema MA. Nitrogenous Fertilizer Coated With Zinc Improves the Productivity and Grain Quality of Rice Grown Under Anaerobic Conditions. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:914653. [PMID: 35837462 PMCID: PMC9274167 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.914653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
An ample quantity of water and sufficient nutrients are required for economical rice production to meet the challenges of ever-increasing food demand. Currently, slow-release nitrogenous fertilizers for efficient inputs utilization and maximum economic yield of field crops are in the limelight for researchers and farmers. In this study, we evaluated the comparative efficacy of conventional urea and coated urea (zinc and neem) on rice grown under aerobic and anaerobic regimes in greenhouse conditions. For the aerobic regime, field capacity was maintained at 80-100% to keep the soil aerated. On the other hand, for the anaerobic regime, pots were covered with a polythene sheet throughout the experimentation to create flooded conditions. All forms of urea, conventional and coated (zinc and neem), improved plant growth, gas exchange, yield, yield contributing parameters, and quality characteristics of rice crop. However, better performance in all attributes was found in the case of zinc-coated urea. Gas exchange attributes (photosynthetic rate, 30%, and stomatal conductance 24%), yield parameters like plant height (29%), tillers per plant (38%), spikelets per spike (31%), grains per panicle (42%), total biomass (53%), and grain yield (45%) were recorded to be maximum in rice plants treated with zinc-coated urea. The highest grain and straw nitrogen contents, grain protein contents, and grain water absorption ratio were also found in plants with zinc-coated urea applications. In irrigation practices, the anaerobic regime was found to be more responsive compared to the aerobic regime regarding rice growth, productivity, and quality traits. Thus, to enhance the productivity and quality of rice grown in anaerobic conditions, zinc-coated urea is best suited as it is more responsive when compared to other forms of urea.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muhammad Irshad
- Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Sohail Irshad
- Department of Agronomy, MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Shahbaz Khan
- National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zuhair Hasnain
- Department of Agronomy, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Danish Ibrar
- National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Afroz Rais Khan
- Department of Botany, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University, Quetta, Pakistan
| | | | - Saqib Bashir
- Department of Soil and Environmental Science, Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - Saqer S. Alotaibi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amar Matloob
- Department of Agronomy, MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Mumtaz Akhtar Cheema
- Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
- School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
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18
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Xi L, Zhang M, Zhang L, Lew TTS, Lam YM. Novel Materials for Urban Farming. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2105009. [PMID: 34668260 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202105009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Scarcity of natural resources, shifting demographics, climate change, and increasing waste are four major challenges in the quest to feed the exploding world population. These challenges serve as the impetus to harness novel technologies to improve agriculture, productivity, and sustainability. Urban farming has several advantages over conventional farming: higher productivity, improved sustainability, and the ability to provide fresh food all year round. Novel materials are key to accelerating the evolution of urban farming - with their ability to facilitate controlled release of nutrients and pesticides, improved seed health, substrates with better water retention capability, more efficient recycling of agricultural waste, and precise plant health monitoring. Materials science enables environmental sustainability and higher harvest yields in urban farms. Here, Singapore is used as an example of a land-scarce city where urban farming may be the solution for future food production. Potential research directions and challenges in urban farming are highlighted, and how material optimization and innovation drive the development of urban farming to meet national and global food demands is briefly discussed. This review serves as a guide for researchers and a reference for stakeholders of urban farms, policy makers, and other interested parties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifei Xi
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- Facility for Analysis, Characterisation, Testing and Simulation (FACTS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Mengyuan Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Liling Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Tedrick T S Lew
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138634, Singapore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Yeng Ming Lam
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- Facility for Analysis, Characterisation, Testing and Simulation (FACTS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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19
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Development Status and Perspectives of Crop Protection Machinery and Techniques for Vegetables. HORTICULTURAE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae8020166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Diseases and pests are important factors in vegetable cultivation; they not only affect the growth and appearance of vegetables but also affect the yield and quality. The disease and pest control of vegetables is dominated by chemical sprays, for now. As a result, the excessive use of pesticides has been a crucial factor of pesticides’ non-point source pollution, and it is also the main cause of excessive pesticide residues in vegetables. Therefore, the design of efficient plant protection machinery and technology has become an urgent demand in order to ensure the quality and safety of vegetables. In this review, the machinery and technologies for vegetable protection are introduced from the aspects of chemical control and physical control. In the aspect of chemical control, handheld sprayers, self-propelled or track sprayers, fixed-pipe spray systems, vertical and horizontal boom sprayers, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and vegetable seed treatment techniques are introduced. In the aspect of physical control, soil physical disinfection, pest trapping technologies and ozone sterilizers are introduced. Finally, the existing problems and perspectives of pesticide application sprayers and physical control equipment for vegetables are summarized. This paper can provide references for vegetable growers and researchers.
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Cardarelli M, Woo SL, Rouphael Y, Colla G. Seed Treatments with Microorganisms Can Have a Biostimulant Effect by Influencing Germination and Seedling Growth of Crops. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11030259. [PMID: 35161239 PMCID: PMC8838022 DOI: 10.3390/plants11030259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Seed quality is an important aspect of the modern cultivation strategies since uniform germination and high seedling vigor contribute to successful establishment and crop performance. To enhance germination, beneficial microbes belonging to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Trichoderma spp., rhizobia and other bacteria can be applied to seeds before sowing via coating or priming treatments. Their presence establishes early relationships with plants, leading to biostimulant effects such as plant-growth enhancement, increased nutrient uptake, and improved plant resilience to abiotic stress. This review aims to highlight the most significant results obtained for wheat, maize, rice, soybean, canola, sunflower, tomato, and other horticultural species. Beneficial microorganism treatments increased plant germination, seedling vigor, and biomass, as well as overcoming seed-related limitations (such as abiotic stress), both during and after emergence. The results are generally positive, but variable, so more scientific information needs to be acquired for different crops and cultivation techniques, with considerations to different beneficial microbes (species and strains) and under variable climate conditions to understand the effects of seed treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariateresa Cardarelli
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, 01100 Viterbo, Italy;
| | - Sheridan L. Woo
- BAT Center-Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy;
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Youssef Rouphael
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Colla
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, 01100 Viterbo, Italy;
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21
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Ayed S, Bouhaouel I, Jebari H, Hamada W. Use of Biostimulants: Towards Sustainable Approach to Enhance Durum Wheat Performances. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:133. [PMID: 35009136 PMCID: PMC8747104 DOI: 10.3390/plants11010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The use of biostimulant (BS) holds a promising and environmental-friendly innovation to address current needs of sustainable agriculture. The aim of the present study is twofold: (i) assess the potential of durum wheat seed coating with microbial BS ('Panoramix', Koppert), a mix of Bacillus spp., Trichoderma spp., and endomycorrhiza, compared to two chemical products ('Spectro' and 'Mycoseeds') through germination bioassay, pot and field trials under semi-arid conditions, and (ii) identify the most effective method of BS supply ('seed coating', 'foliar spray', and 'seed coating + foliar spray') under field conditions. For this purpose, three modern durum wheat cultivars were tested. 'Panoramix' was the most efficient treatment and enhanced all germination (germination rate, and coleoptile and radicle length), physiological (relative water content, chlorophyll content, and leaf area), and agro-morphological (plant height, biomass, seed number per spike, thousand kernel weight, and grain yield) attributes. Unexpectedly, the individual application of 'Panoramix' showed better performance than the combined treatment 'Panoramix + Spectro'. Considering the physiological and agro-morphological traits, the combined method 'seed coating + foliar spray' displayed the best results. Principal component analysis confirmed the superiority of 'Panoramix' treatment or 'seed coating + foliar spray' method. Among tested durum wheat cultivars, 'Salim' performed better especially under 'Panoramix' treatment, but in some case 'Karim' valorized better this BS showing the highest increase rates. Based on these study outcomes, 'Panoramix' might be used as promising sustainable approach to stimulate durum wheat performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourour Ayed
- Field Crops Laboratory, LR20-INRAT-02, National Agricultural Research Institute of Tunisia, University of Carthage, Ariana 2049, Tunisia;
| | - Imen Bouhaouel
- Genetics and Cereal Breeding Laboratory, LR14AGR01, National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia, University of Carthage, Tunis 1082, Tunisia; (I.B.); (W.H.)
| | - Hayet Jebari
- Field Crops Laboratory, LR20-INRAT-02, National Agricultural Research Institute of Tunisia, University of Carthage, Ariana 2049, Tunisia;
| | - Walid Hamada
- Genetics and Cereal Breeding Laboratory, LR14AGR01, National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia, University of Carthage, Tunis 1082, Tunisia; (I.B.); (W.H.)
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Gubišová M, Hudcovicová M, Matušinský P, Ondreičková K, Klčová L, Gubiš J. Superabsorbent Polymer Seed Coating Reduces Leaching of Fungicide but Does Not Alter Their Effectiveness in Suppressing Pathogen Infestation. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 14:76. [PMID: 35012099 PMCID: PMC8747295 DOI: 10.3390/polym14010076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) applied to soil have been recognized as water reservoirs that allow plants to cope with periods of drought. Their application as a seed coat makes water available directly to the seeds during their germination and early growth phase, but on the other hand, it can affect the efficiency of plant protection substances used in seed dressing. In our experiments, we evaluated the effect of seed coating with SAP on fungicide leaching and changes in their effectiveness in suppressing Fusarium culmorum infestation. Leaching of fungicide from wheat seeds coated with SAP after fungicide dressing, as measured by the inhibition test of mycelium growth under in vitro conditions, was reduced by 14.2-15.8% compared to seeds without SAP coating. Germination of maize seeds and growth of juvenile plants in artificially infected soil did not differ significantly between seeds dressed with fungicide alone and seeds treated with SAP and fungicide. In addition, plants from the seeds coated with SAP alone grew significantly better compared to untreated seeds. Real-time PCR also confirmed this trend by measuring the amount of pathogen DNA in plant tissue. Winter wheat was less tolerant to F. culmorum infection and without fungicide dressing, the seeds were unable to germinate under strong pathogen attack. In the case of milder infection, similar results were observed as in the case of maize seeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Gubišová
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Plant Production, Bratislavská cesta 122, 921 68 Piestany, Slovakia; (M.G.); (M.H.); (L.K.); (J.G.)
| | - Martina Hudcovicová
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Plant Production, Bratislavská cesta 122, 921 68 Piestany, Slovakia; (M.G.); (M.H.); (L.K.); (J.G.)
| | - Pavel Matušinský
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Palacký University in Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 783 71 Olomouc, Czech Republic; or
- Department of Plant Pathology, Agrotest Fyto, Ltd., Havlíčkova 2787, 767 01 Kromeriz, Czech Republic
| | - Katarína Ondreičková
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Plant Production, Bratislavská cesta 122, 921 68 Piestany, Slovakia; (M.G.); (M.H.); (L.K.); (J.G.)
| | - Lenka Klčová
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Plant Production, Bratislavská cesta 122, 921 68 Piestany, Slovakia; (M.G.); (M.H.); (L.K.); (J.G.)
| | - Jozef Gubiš
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Plant Production, Bratislavská cesta 122, 921 68 Piestany, Slovakia; (M.G.); (M.H.); (L.K.); (J.G.)
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23
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Effect of Zero and Minimum Tillage on Cotton Productivity and Soil Characteristics under Different Nitrogen Application Rates. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132413753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Long-term conservation tillage and straw incorporation are reported to improve the soil health, growth, and yield traits of crops; however, little is known regarding the optimal nitrogen (N) supply under conservation tillage with straw incorporation. The present study evaluated the effects of conservation tillage practices (ZTsas: zero tillage plus wheat straw on the soil surface as such, and MTsi: minimum tillage plus wheat straw incorporated) and different N application rates (50, 100, 150, and 200 kg ha−1) on the yield and quality traits of cotton and soil characteristics in a five-year field experiment. The results showed that ZTsas produced a higher number of bolls per plant, boll weight, seed cotton yield, 100-seed weight, ginning out-turn (GOT), fiber length, and strength than MTsi. Among different N application rates, the maximum number of bolls per plant, boll weight, seed cotton yield, GOT, 100-seed weight, fiber length, strength, and micronaire were recorded at 150 kg N ha−1. Averaged over the years, tillage × N revealed that ZTsas had a higher boll number plant−1, boll weight, 100-seed weight, GOT, fiber length, and strength with N application at 150 kg ha−1, as compared to other tillage systems. Based on the statistical results, there is no significant difference in total soil N and soil organic matter among different N rates. Further, compared to MTsi, ZTsas recorded higher soil organic matter (SOM, 8%), total soil N (TSN, 29%), water-stable aggregates (WSA, 8%), and mean weight diameter (MWD, 28.5%), particularly when the N application of 150 kg ha−1. The fiber fineness showed that ZTsas had no adverse impact on fiber fineness compared with MTsi. These results indicate that ZTsas with 150 kg N ha−1 may be the optimum and most sustainable approach to improve cotton yield and soil quality in the wheat–cotton system.
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Brown VS, Erickson TE, Merritt DJ, Madsen MD, Hobbs RJ, Ritchie AL. A global review of seed enhancement technology use to inform improved applications in restoration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 798:149096. [PMID: 34340083 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Seed-based restoration often experiences poor success due to a range of edaphic and biotic issues. Seed enhancement technologies (SETs) are a novel approach that can alleviate these pressures and improve restoration success. Broadly, SETs have been reviewed for agricultural and horticultural purposes, for specific types of SETs such as coating or priming, or for focal ecosystems. However, information is lacking for SETs within a restoration focused context, and how they are being used to alleviate certain barriers. This review aimed to synthesise the current literature on SETs to understand what SETs are being tested, in which sectors and locations they are being tested, what issues are faced within restoration using SETs, and how SETs are being used to approach these issues. Priming was highlighted as the main SET investigated. Inoculation, pesticide application and magnetic fields were also commonly tested (SETs we termed 'prospective techniques'). SET research mainly occurred in the agricultural sector. More recently, other sectors, such as restoration and rangeland management, have increased efforts into SET research. The restoration sector has focused on extruded pelleting and coating (with activated carbon), in combination with herbicide application, to overcome invasive species, and coating with certain additives to alleviate edaphic issues. Other sectors outside restoration were largely focused on evaluating priming for overcoming these barriers. The majority of priming research has been completed on crop species and differences between these species and ecosystems must be considered in future restoration efforts that focus on native seed use. Generally, SETs require further refinement, including identifying ideal additives and their optimum concentrations to target certain issues, refining formulations for coating and extruded pelleting and developing flash flaming. A bet-hedging approach using multiple SETs and/or combinations of SETs may be advantageous in overcoming a wide range of barriers in seed-based restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa S Brown
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, 2 Kattidj Close, Kings Park, Western Australia, 6005, Australia.
| | - Todd E Erickson
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, 2 Kattidj Close, Kings Park, Western Australia, 6005, Australia
| | - David J Merritt
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, 2 Kattidj Close, Kings Park, Western Australia, 6005, Australia
| | - Matthew D Madsen
- Department of Plant and Wildlife Sciences, Brigham Young University, 701 East University Parkway, Provo, UT 84602, United States of America
| | - Richard J Hobbs
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Alison L Ritchie
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, 2 Kattidj Close, Kings Park, Western Australia, 6005, Australia
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25
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Mitra D, Mondal R, Khoshru B, Shadangi S, Das Mohapatra PK, Panneerselvam P. Rhizobacteria mediated seed bio-priming triggers the resistance and plant growth for sustainable crop production. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2021; 2:100071. [PMID: 34841361 PMCID: PMC8610296 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2021.100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced technologies are commonly used in modern agriculture to break the yield barriers and increase crop productivity. Seeds treated with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are an effective bio-priming method to introduce beneficial microbial inocula into the rhizosphere or soil. Bio-priming is a type of seed treatment that employs biological entities, which involves the hydration of seeds and inoculation with beneficial microorganisms. Mainly, the seed bio-priming technique improves the seed quality, germination, viability, vigor index, growth promotion, production, and subsequent disease resistance by enhancing the uniform speed of germination and production of others growth regulators. In the majority of cases, bacterial inoculants mostly PGPR are used for seed bio-priming, it is an ecologically comprehensive strategy that uses selected PGPR to promote plant growth by producing regulatory substances, enhancing uptake of nutrients, protecting seedlings/plants from seed or soil-borne pathogens. Bio-priming methods using PGPR inoculants are becoming more common in modern agriculture as an alternative to chemical treatments. They are more environmentally sustainable and safer for future agriculture apart from improving plants and soil health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debasis Mitra
- Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj, 733 134 Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Rittick Mondal
- Department of Sericulture, Raiganj University, Raiganj, 733 134 Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Bahman Khoshru
- Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Smriti Shadangi
- Microbiology, Crop Production Division, ICAR -National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha 753 006 India
| | - Pradeep K Das Mohapatra
- Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj, 733 134 Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, India.,PAKB Environment Conservation Centre, Raiganj University, Raiganj, 733 134 Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Periyasamy Panneerselvam
- Microbiology, Crop Production Division, ICAR -National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha 753 006 India
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Sharma P, Pandey V, Sharma MMM, Patra A, Singh B, Mehta S, Husen A. A Review on Biosensors and Nanosensors Application in Agroecosystems. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2021; 16:136. [PMID: 34460019 PMCID: PMC8405745 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-021-03593-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Previous decades have witnessed a lot of challenges that have provoked a dire need of ensuring global food security. The process of augmenting food production has made the agricultural ecosystems to face a lot of challenges like the persistence of residual particles of different pesticides, accretion of heavy metals, and contamination with toxic elemental particles which have negatively influenced the agricultural environment. The entry of such toxic elements into the human body via agricultural products engenders numerous health effects such as nerve and bone marrow disorders, metabolic disorders, infertility, disruption of biological functions at the cellular level, and respiratory and immunological diseases. The exigency for monitoring the agroecosystems can be appreciated by contemplating the reported 220,000 annual deaths due to toxic effects of residual pesticidal particles. The present practices employed for monitoring agroecosystems rely on techniques like gas chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, mass spectroscopy, etc. which have multiple constraints, being expensive, tedious with cumbersome protocol, demanding sophisticated appliances along with skilled personnel. The past couple of decades have witnessed a great expansion of the science of nanotechnology and this development has largely facilitated the development of modest, quick, and economically viable bio and nanosensors for detecting different entities contaminating the natural agroecosystems with an advantage of being innocuous to human health. The growth of nanotechnology has offered rapid development of bio and nanosensors for the detection of several composites which range from several metal ions, proteins, pesticides, to the detection of complete microorganisms. Therefore, the present review focuses on different bio and nanosensors employed for monitoring agricultural ecosystems and also trying to highlight the factor affecting their implementation from proof-of-concept to the commercialization stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana 125004 India
| | - Vimal Pandey
- National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067 India
| | - Mayur Mukut Murlidhar Sharma
- Department of Agriculture and Life Industry, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do 24341 Republic of Korea
| | - Anupam Patra
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067 India
| | - Baljinder Singh
- National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067 India
| | - Sahil Mehta
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067 India
| | - Azamal Husen
- Wolaita Sodo University, P.O. Box: 138, Wolaita, Ethiopia
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Magnetic Field Treatments Improves Sunflower Yield by Inducing Physiological and Biochemical Modulations in Seeds. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26072022. [PMID: 33916293 PMCID: PMC8036579 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26072022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic seed enhancement has been practicing as a promising tool to improve germination and seedling growth of low vigor seeds stored under suboptimal conditions, but there is still ambiguity regarding the prospects for magnetism in oilseeds. Present study elucidates the potential of magnetic seed stimulation to improve sunflower germination, growth and yield. Germination and emergence tests were performed to optimize the strength of the magnetic field to sunflower seed enhancement. The seeds were directly exposed to magnetic field strengths of 50, 100 and 150 millitesla (mT) for 5, 10 and 15 min (min) and then standard germination tests were performed. Secondly, the emergence potential of untreated seeds was compared with seed exposed to hydropriming, priming with 3% moringa leaf extract (MLE), priming with magnetically treated water (MTW) for 10 min and priming with 3% MLE solution prepared in magnetically treated water (MTW + MLE). Germination, emergence, seedling growth and seed biochemical properties were used to select the best treatment for field evaluation. The results of the study revealed that magnetic seed treatment with 100 mT for 10 min and seed priming with 3% MLE solution in magnetically treated water (MTW + MLE) significantly improved emergence, crop growth rate and sunflower yield.
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28
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Seed Coating in Direct Seeded Rice: An Innovative and Sustainable Approach to Enhance Grain Yield and Weed Management under Submerged Conditions. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13042190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dry direct-seeded rice is an alternative cropping technique that should require less water and labor than the classical method of transplanted-flooded rice. Weed competition is the major biological constraint in this resource-conserving production technique reducing the crop yield by 30–80%. This study evaluated the effects of different seed coating treatments on the performance of dry direct seeded rice under field conditions. The seed coating treatments used were preliminarily optimized under lab conditions. The rice seeds were coated with sodium lauryl sulphate (20:1), calcium peroxide (CaO2) (20:6), alginate (20:6), and plant growth promoting bacteria Bacillus sp. KS-54 (20:6 g:mL) on a dry weight basis. Among treatments, seed coating with CaO2 resulted in higher field emergence (85%) and suppressed the fresh and dry biomass of weeds at 15 and 35 days after sowing which subsequently improved the seedling growth of direct seeded rice followed by other treatments and the control. Rice seeds coated with CaO2 and Bacillus sp. KS-54 were effective at enhancing morphological, yield and yield related attributes as compared to other treatments and the control under field conditions. The better morphological attributes and yield of rice plants raised from seeds coated with CaO2 and Bacillus sp. KS-54 were associated with higher concentrations of reducing sugars and enhanced antioxidant enzymes activities.
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